Clatterbridge oncology centre passes CQC spot checks

The regulator checked two “essential standards” of care during an inspection of two wards – Mersey ward and Sulby ward – at the Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology on 16 March 2011.

Inspectors – including a practising nurse – observed how people were being cared for, talked with patients, talked with staff, and checked records.

The standards assessed were:

• People should be treated with respect, involved in discussions about their care and treatment and able to influence how the service is run
• Food and drink should meet people’s individual dietary needs

It concluded overall that the Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology had passed both of the essential standards of quality and safety the CQC reviewed.

In its report, the regulator said: “Patient and relatives told us that they were very satisfied with the care and treatment provided to them during their stay at Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology.

“They told us that they were treated with dignity and respect, information was given to them in a form they could understand and they were involved in decision making regarding their care and treatment.

“Observation, assessment of records and information submitted by the trust supported and corroborated what the patients had told us.”

It added: “Patients and relatives told us that they were satisfied with the way in which Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology meets their nutritional needs. They also told us that the food choices, availability, presentation, and special diets were of good quality.

“We found at the inspection that patients needs were assessed, staff supported and assisted patients where required and that mealtimes were protected and well organised.”

The regulator visited 100 hospitals as part of its programme of inspections on older patients’ treatment and is currently publishing them in batches, of which this is the fourth.